Instructor Guide to the SAM App
Contents
Introduction
3
Exams
4
Adding an Exam Part I – Step One of the Add Exam Wizard
4
Adding an Exam Part II – Steps Two, Three and Four of the Wizard
5
Scheduling a New Exam
8
Editing an Exam
11
Copying an Exam
12
Previewing an Exam
13
Training
14
Adding a New Training Part I – Step One of the Add Training Wizard
14
Adding New Training Part II – Steps Two, Three and Four of the Add Training Wizard
15
Scheduling New Training
17
Editing Training
19
Copying a Training
20
Previewing Training
21
Editing Exams or Training After Scheduling
21
Task Ordering for Exams or Training
21
Projects
23
Locating and Previewing Projects
24
Scheduling a Project
25
Adjusting Project Weights
28
SAM Path
Scheduling a New SAM Path Assignment
Using the Express Creation Wizard
30
30
41
Adding and Scheduling an Exam Assignment
41
Adding and Scheduling a Training Assignment
43
Adding and Scheduling a Project Assignment
45
MindTap 3.37
SAM 2017
Last Edited: 3/8/2017
Adding Study Center Content
47
Managing Activities in MindTap
48
Editing Assignments
48
Hiding Activities
49
Deleting Activities
50
Using the Content Player
51
Using the 2013 Content Player
51
Using the 2016 Content Player
54
SAM Reports
59
SAM Report Descriptions
63
Progress
74
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
Cengage Learning
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Instructors/DSCs
Introduction
SAM (Skills Assessment Manager) is a web-based software application that measures student
proficiency in the Microsoft Office (Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Word); Internet Explorer
and Windows. DSCs can assist instructors in the setup and configuration of SAM assignments in
MindTap courses.
Audience
This document provides directions for DSCs and MindTap course instructors using SAM. Users in
Instructor roles or TA Users with Add/edit homework activities permissions can add SAM assignments
to a course. Users with the CourseCare role in MindTap also can add activities.
Objectives
Readers of the document can learn about the following:

Exams

Training

Projects

SAM Path Assignment

Using Express Creation

Scheduling SAM Assignments

Editing SAM Assignments

Hiding Activities

Deleting Activities

Reports

Progress App

SAM Study Center
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Exams
Create MindTap Activities from the SAM App by adding them to the Learning Path.
Enhance your MindTap courses by creating your own content and scheduling Activities or editing
existing exams or training.
Select the tasks or questions you want to include in exams. Preview questions and tasks while creating
exams.
Adding an Exam Part I – Step One of the Add Exam Wizard
Create an exam using the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click Exams.
Result: The Exams page displays with a list of all exams to which you have access.
NOTES:
On this page, you can:
 Sort individual columns in ascending or descending order by clicking the column
heading.
 Preview an item by clicking the Preview icon to the left of the exam name.
 Locate and select an exam. To narrow your search:
— In the Search box, enter search text.
 Edit and copy exams by clicking the corresponding icon in the Actions column.
Result: The filtered exam list displays.
4
Click Add Exam.
Result: The Add Exam wizard starts and Step 1, Select Content Version, Type and
Enter Exam Name, displays.
5
To include companion training for a SAM Path assignment, select Auto-generate
companion training.
Result: The training name auto-populates with the name of the sample test before
the word training. You can change the name.
6
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 2 of the wizard, Select Textbooks, displays.
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Instructors/DSCs
Adding an Exam Part II – Steps Two, Three and Four of the Wizard
After Step 6 in Adding an Exam Part I, there are three scenarios available. The steps vary slightly
depending for each scenario. The scenarios are as follows:

A: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters but NOT selecting Make all SAM Tasks available

B: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters and Make all SAM Tasks available

C: Selecting only Make all SAM Tasks available
The following procedures detail these three scenarios:
A: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters but NOT selecting Make all SAM Tasks available
Step
Action
7A
Browse the text book list and select the option box to the left of the textbook to
select it.
8A
Leave the Make all SAM Tasks available check box deselected.
9A
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 3 of the wizard, Select Chapters, displays.
10A
Select the appropriate Chapter check box(es).
11A
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 4 of the wizard displays.
12A
Select tasks or questions:
 From the available tabs that display for Testbank Questions, Tasks or Custom
Questions, click the appropriate tab and select the check box next to items to
add.
 Use the Search text box to search for specific questions.
Result: The question list filters to the criteria entered.
NOTE: Tasks associated to chapters are selected by default; testbank questions and
custom questions are not. The maximum number of questions for exams is 150.
13A
Click Save.
Result: A dialog box displays asking if you want to schedule the assignment.
14A
Click Schedule to edit scheduling options. Proceed to Step 6 of the Scheduling a
New Exam workflow.
OR
Click Done to return to the Exam tab.
B: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters and Make all SAM Tasks available
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Step
Action
7B
Browse the text book list and select the option box to the left of the textbook to
select it.
8B
Select the Make all SAM Tasks available check box.
9B
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 3 of the wizard, Select Chapters, displays.
10B
Select the appropriate Chapter check box(s). Options are as follows:
 Select the Select All check box.
 Select individual chapters.
11B
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 4 of the wizard displays.
12B
Select tasks or questions:
 From the available tabs that display for Testbank Questions, Tasks or Custom
Questions, click the appropriate tab and select the check box next to items to
add.
 Use the Search text box to search for specific questions.
Result: The question list filters to the criteria entered.
NOTE: Tasks associated to chapters are selected by default; testbank questions and
custom questions are not. The maximum number of questions for exams is 150.
13B
Click Save.
Result: A dialog box displays asking if you want to schedule the assignment.
14B
Click Schedule to edit scheduling options. Proceed to Step 6 of the Scheduling a
New Exam workflow.
OR
Click Done to return to the Exam tab.
C: Selecting Only Make all SAM Tasks available
Step
Action
7C
Click the Make All SAM Tasks available check box.
8C
Do not select any textbooks.
9C
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 4 of the wizard displays. Only subjects display on the taskbar.
10C
On the taskbar, click the appropriate Subject tab.
Result: Tasks and Custom Questions associated to the subject display.
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Instructors/DSCs
Step
Action
11C
To Select tasks or questions:
 From the available tabs that display for Testbank Questions, Tasks or Custom
Questions, click the appropriate tab and select the check box next to items to
add.
 Use the Search text box to search for specific questions.
Result: The question list filters to the criteria entered.
NOTE: The maximum number of questions for exams is 150.
12C
Click Save.
Result: A dialog box displays asking if you want to schedule the assignment.
13C
Click Schedule to edit scheduling options. Proceed to Step 6 of the Scheduling a
New Exam workflow.
OR
Click Done to return to the Exam tab.
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Scheduling a New Exam
Use the following procedure to schedule an exam:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
On the taskbar, click Schedule New.
Result: The Schedule SAM Assignment wizard starts and Step 1, Select Assignment
Type, displays.
4
For Assignment Type, click Exams.
NOTE: To preview an exam, click the corresponding Preview icon to the right of the
assignment name.
5
From the Subject drop-down menu, select the subject of the exam.
6
In the Exam List, click the option button to the left of the exam that you want to
schedule.
7
Click Next Step.
Result: The Add Assignment Options and Schedule dialog box displays.
8
In the Exam and Assignment Options and Scheduling dialog box, select from the
various options. See the following table for details.
9
When finished entering all options, click Save.
Result: The Assignment Properties page displays.
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Instructors/DSCs
Step
10
Action
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the Learning
Path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Exam displays on the Learning Path.
Exam Assignment and Schedule Options
NOTE: An * indicates a mandatory field.
Option
Details if selected
Exam Assignment Options
*Assignment Name
Required field
Default: Auto-populates with the exam name.
Instructions
Enter additional instructions.
Default: No instructions
Scoring and Delivery Options
Pass/Fail
Enter the Pass/Fail threshold as a percentage of correct answers.
Default: Not Pass/Fail
Specify time limit
Enter the maximum exam time in minutes.
Default: Untimed
Allow SAM Exam to be
retaken
Enter the maximum number of retakes up to 50. Instructors enable
students to use the same exam for practice before submitting it for a
final grade.
Default: No retakes
One retake if using default number of retakes.
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Option
Details if selected
Display results at end
of exam
Display scores at the end of the exam.
Default: Results do not display.
Randomize
tasks/questions
Display exam questions or tasks in random order rather than the
original selection order.
Default: Not randomized
Restrictive Mode
Students can only navigate to tabs, menus or dialog boxes that lead
to the correct answer. Students can still scroll, expand or collapse
pane drop downs within the ribbon.
NOTE: This option only displays for exams that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Default: Not enabled.
Practice
Select to make the Exam a Practice assignment that does not count
towards the final score.
Default: Non-Practice.
Performance Task Options
Modify scenarios
Use a different task scenario.
NOTE: Not all tasks offer multiple scenarios.
Default: Scenario 1
Display feedback for
each task item
Provide feedback after a student completes each task.
Default: Feedback displays.
Specify incorrect
actions per task
Enter number of times a student can attempt to complete a task
successfully before marking the task incorrect.
Select a value between 1 and 10.
Default: Three attempts
Testbank/Custom Question Options
Display feedback for
each question
Provide feedback when the student answers each question.
Default: No feedback
Specify incorrect
attempts per question
Enter the number of times a student can attempt to answer a
question. (Select a value between 1 and 10.)
NOTE: Selecting Display feedback for each question enables
students to attempt the question once.
Default: One attempt
Display feedback for
each question
Provide feedback when the student answers each question.
Default: No feedback
Exam Schedule Options
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Instructors/DSCs
Option
Details if selected
Specify password for
student access
Enter a password for students to access exams.
Specify when students
can view reports
Display exam performance reports to students as follows:
 Never make reports available to students.
 Click the Make student reports always available beginning 12:00
AM option button if you want to make reports for this exam
available on a specific date. The date defaults to the first
available date. You can click the Calendar icon to select a new
date.
 Make student reports available (Specify a range of dates from the
calendar).
Default: Make student reports available beginning on the current
date.
Editing an Exam
To edit an exam, use the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click the Exams tab.
Result: The Exams tab displays.
4
Locate the exam to edit.
Click the Edit icon.
Result: The Edit Assignment or Scheduling Options page displays.
5
Edit the assignment options. For more information, navigate to step 4 of Adding an
Exam Part 1- Step One of the Add Exam Wizard.
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Copying an Exam
To copy an exam, use the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
On the Navigation bar, click SAM Assignments.
Result: The SAM Assignments page displays.
4
Click Exams.
Result: The Exams page displays.
5
Locate and select the exam to copy.
6
In the Actions column, click the Copy icon.
Result: The Copy Exam wizard starts and Step 1, Copy Exam, displays.
NOTES:
 The Exam Name, Training Name, and selection to Auto-generate companion
training remain the same from the original exam creation.
 You cannot edit exams created before June 2015.
7
Enter a name for the exam.
IMPORTANT: Adding or removing any tasks from the exam also adds or removes
them from the companion training.
8
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 2 of the wizard, Select Textbooks, displays.
9
Decide which selections to make. See the following sections of the Adding an Exam
– Part II procedures to proceed:
 A: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters but NOT selecting Make all SAM Tasks
available
 B: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters and Make all SAM Tasks available
 C: Selecting only Make all SAM Tasks available
10
Decide if you want to save the exam and schedule later or save and schedule now.
Proceed to Step 7 of the Scheduling a New Exam workflow.
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Instructors/DSCs
Previewing an Exam
SAM enables you to preview an exam to see it the same way your students do. To preview an exam, use
the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
On the Navigation bar, click SAM Assignments.
Result: The SAM Assignments page displays.
4
Click Exams.
Result: The Exams page displays.
5
Locate and select the exam to preview.
6
Click the Preview icon to the left of the exam.
Result: The Preview Exam window displays.
7
Click Print Screen to print the contents of the Preview Exam window.
8
You can launch all or individual training items.
 Launch all training items:
— Click Launch All to preview all questions or tasks using the selected scenario
document.
 Launch an individual training item:
— Click Launch to the right of a specific question or task to preview it using the
selected scenario.
Result: The SAM Content Player opens in a separate window.
9
When finished, click Exit in the player’s control panel.
Result: The Content Player window closes and the Preview Exam window displays.
10
Click the X icon to close the Preview Exam window.
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Training
SAM Training teaches skills and prepares students for exams and projects. You can create the following
types of training:

New training using questions you specify

Training copied from existing training
Adding a New Training Part I – Step One of the Add Training Wizard
To create a new training, use the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click Training.
Result: The Training page displays.
NOTE: On this page, you can:
 Sort individual columns in ascending or descending order by clicking the column
heading.
 Preview a training by clicking the Preview icon to the left of the training name.
 Locate and select a training. To narrow your search:
— In the Search box, enter search text.
 Edit and copy training by clicking the corresponding icon in the Actions column.
4
Click Add Training.
Result: The Add New Training wizard starts and Step 1, Select Training, displays.
5
Enter a Training name.
6
To include a companion exam for a SAM Path assignment, select Auto-generate
companion exam.
Result: The exam name auto-populates. You can change the name.
7
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 2 of the wizard, Select Textbooks, displays.
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Instructors/DSCs
Adding New Training Part II – Steps Two, Three and Four of the Add
Training Wizard
After Step 6 in Adding a New Training Part I, there are three scenarios available. The steps vary slightly
for each scenario. The scenarios are as follows:

A: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters but NOT selecting Make all SAM Tasks available

B: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters and Make all SAM Tasks available

C: Selecting only Make all SAM Tasks available
The following procedures detail these three scenarios:
A: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters but NOT selecting Make all SAM Tasks available
Step
Action
7A
Browse the text book list and click the option box to the left of the textbook to
select it.
8A
Leave the Make all SAM Tasks available check box deselected.
9A
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 3 of the wizard, Select Chapters, displays.
10A
Select the appropriate Chapter check box(s). Options are as follows:
 Select the Select All check box.
 Select individual chapters.
11A
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 4 of the wizard, Select Tasks, displays.
12A
Select tasks or questions:
 From the available tabs that display for Testbank Questions, Tasks or Custom
Questions, click the appropriate tab and select the check box next to items to
add.
 Use the Search text box to search for specific questions.
Result: The question list filters to the criteria entered.
NOTE: Tasks associated to chapters are selected by default; testbank questions and
custom questions are not.
13A
Click Save.
Result: A dialog box displays asking if you want to schedule the assignment.
14A
Click Schedule to edit scheduling options. Proceed to step 6 of Scheduling New
Training.
OR
Click Done to return to the Training tab.
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B: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters and Make all SAM Tasks available
Step
Action
7B
Browse the text book list and click the option box to the left of the textbook to
select it.
8B
Select the Make All SAM Tasks available check box.
9B
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 3 of the wizard, Select Chapters, displays.
10B
Select the appropriate Chapter check box(s). Options are as follows:
 Select the Select All check box.
 Select individual chapters.
11B
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 4 of the wizard, Select Tasks, displays.
12B
Select tasks or questions:
 From the available tabs that display for Testbank Questions, Tasks or Custom
Questions, click the appropriate tab and select the check box next to items to
add.
 Use the Search text box to search for specific questions.
Result: The question list filters to the criteria entered.
NOTE: Tasks associated to chapters are selected by default; testbank questions and
custom questions are not.
13B
Click Save.
Result: A dialog box displays asking if you want to schedule the assignment.
14B
Click Schedule to edit scheduling options. Proceed to step 6 of Scheduling New
Training.
OR
Click Done to return to the Training tab.
C: Selecting Only Make all SAM Tasks available
Step
Action
7C
Select the Make All SAM Tasks available check box.
8C
Do not select any textbooks.
9C
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 4 of the wizard displays. Only subjects display on the taskbar.
10C
On the taskbar, click the appropriate Subject tab.
Result: Tasks associated to the subject display.
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Instructors/DSCs
Step
Action
11C
From available tasks, select the content of the training.
NOTE: For training, the maximum number of tasks is 150.
12C
Click Save.
Result: A dialog box displays asking if you want to schedule the assignment.
13C
Click Schedule to edit scheduling options. Proceed to Scheduling Training Options.
OR
Click Done to return to the Training tab.
Scheduling New Training
Use the following procedure to schedule a training assignment:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
On the taskbar, click Schedule New.
Result: The Schedule SAM Assignment wizard starts and Step 1, Select Assignment
Type, displays.
4
For Assignment Type, click Training.
NOTE: To preview a training, click the corresponding Preview icon to the right of
the assignment name.
5
From the Subject drop-down menu, select the subject of the training.
6
In the training list, click the option button to the left of the training you want to
schedule.
Click Next Step.
Result: The Add Assignment Options and Schedule dialog box displays.
7
In the Training Assignment Options and Scheduling dialog box, select from the
various options. See the following table for details.
8
When finished entering all options, click Save.
Result: The Assignment Properties page displays.
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Step
9
Action
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the learning
path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Training displays on the Learning Path.
Scheduling Training Options
An * indicates a mandatory field.
Option
Details if selected
*Assignment Name
Required field
Default: Auto-populates with the training name entered in
Step 5 of the Adding Training Part I procedure.
Edit the training name, if desired.
Start Training on Apply
Mode
Optional field
Select to start the tasks in Apply Mode on training
assignments.
Default: Off
NOTE: This option only displays for training that contain
Office 365/2016 tasks.
Instructions
Enter additional instructions.
Default: No instructions
Scoring and Delivery Options
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Instructors/DSCs
Option
Details if selected
Practice
Select to make the Training a Practice assignment that does
not count towards the final score.
Default: Non-Practice.
Schedule
Specify password for
student access
(Displays if instructors do not specify available dates)
Enter a password that students need to start the training.
NOTE: Password is optional. If used, provide it to the
students.
Default: No password
Editing Training
To edit training, use the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click the Training tab.
Result: The Training tab displays.
4
Locate the training to edit.
Click the Edit icon.
Result: The Edit Assignment or Scheduling Options page displays.
5
Edit the assignment options. For more information, navigate to Adding a New
Training Part I- Step One of the Add Training Wizard.
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Copying a Training
To copy an existing training, use the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
On the Navigation bar, click SAM Assignments.
Result: The SAM Assignments page displays.
4
Click Training.
Result: The Training page displays.
5
Locate and select the training to edit.
6
In the Actions column, click the Copy icon.
Result: The Copy Training wizard starts and Step 1, Copy Training, displays.
NOTES:
 TheTraining Name, and selection to Auto-generate a companion exam remain
the same from the original training creation.
 You cannot edit training created before June 2015.
7
Enter a name for the training.
IMPORTANT: Copying training that has an existing companion exam does not make
a copy of that exam.
8
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 2 of the wizard, Select Textbooks, displays.
9
Decide which selections to make.
 A: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters but NOT selecting Make all SAM Tasks
available
 B: Selecting Textbooks, Chapters and Make all SAM Tasks available
 C: Selecting only Make all SAM Tasks available
10
Proceed to step 7 of Scheduling New Training to schedule the training during the
Copying an Existing Training procedure.
NOTE: If you do not want to schedule the training now, click Save and then Done.
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Instructors/DSCs
Previewing Training
SAM lets you preview training to see it the same way your students do. To preview training, use the
following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
On the Navigation bar, click SAM Assignments.
4
Click Training.
Result: The Training page displays.
5
Locate and select the training to preview.
6
Click the Preview icon to the left of the training.
Result: The Preview Training window displays.
7
Click Print Screen to print the contents of the Preview Training window.
8
Launch options are as follows:
 To preview all tasks, click Launch All.
 To launch a task individually, click Launch to the right of a specific task.
Result: The SAM Content Player opens in a separate window.
9
When finished, click Exit in the Content Player’s control panel.
Result: The Content Player window closes and the Preview Training window
displays.
10
Click the X icon to close the Preview Training window.
Editing Exams or Training After Scheduling
You can edit exams or trainings after you schedule them, even if student takes exist. If an exam has a
companion training or a training has a companion exam, changes to one affect the other.
Assignments that students submitted or started before you edited it are not affected.
Task Ordering for Exams or Training
Tasks display in the following order:

Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint tasks follow from the organization of the user-interface
and ribbon functionality. For each functional group, related tasks display sequentially.
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
Microsoft Access tasks display by object type. For each object type, related tasks display
sequentially.

Internet Explorer and Microsoft Outlook tasks display by functionality. For each individual
functional group, related tasks display sequentially.
For example, you can find basic Word text formatting under the Home tab - Font functional group.
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Projects
Projects are SAM assignment types that require students to work in the appropriate Microsoft Office
application.
When working on a project, students download a Start File to their computer. They use the Start File to
complete their work and upload the completed file back to SAM for grading.
In a regular SAM Project, students also download an Assignment File from SAM which provides step-bystep instructions designed to test key Microsoft Office skills in a real-world scenario.
SAM Textbook Projects are a subset of projects that encourage students to read their books. They may
not be graded as rigorously or precisely as regular SAM Projects and some steps covered in the books
may not be graded. Textbook Projects grade the chapter tutorial in the Introductory-level chapters of
Shelly Cashman, New Perspectives, and Illustrated textbooks, and help you verify that students are
reading.
This table outlines the similarities and differences between Projects and Textbook Projects.
WARNING: The book will provide alternate file naming instructions for Textbook Projects. Before
uploading their file to SAM, students must change the file name to match the name displayed in the
Project dialog box.
Projects
Textbook Projects
Available for Microsoft Office 2013 and
365/2016
Available for Microsoft Office 2013 and
365/2016.
Students download an Assignment File and a
Start file from SAM.
Students download a Start File from SAM.
WARNING: Students must download the
starting data files from SAM. They cannot use
the files downloaded from Cengagebrain or
elsewhere as instructed in the book.
Students complete the Project by following
numbered steps in the Assignment File.
Students complete the Project by following
instructions in a chapter of their books.
SAM grades students on every skill presented
in the Assignment File to test students’
mastery of Microsoft Office.
SAM grades students on most skills
presented in the book chapter to verify
students are reading.
Every step is graded and all steps display in
the Graded Summary Report.
Some step may not be graded. Non-graded
steps display greyed out in the Graded
Summary Report.
SAM modifies the Start File by inserting
students’ names.
SAM does not modify the Start or Solution
Files. They match the instructions and
screenshots available in corresponding book
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chapters.
Students are graded out of 100 by default.
Each numbered step is worth the same
number of points and partial credit may be
available within each step. You can modify
the step weights of each of the steps or the
total number of points for a project.
Students are graded out of 100. Each skill
shown on the Graded Summary Report
(regardless of the step) is worth the same
number of points. You cannot modify the
project step weights.
Locating and Previewing Projects
Before you can preview or schedule a project, you must first locate it. Use the following procedure to
locate and preview a project:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
On the Navigation bar, click SAM Assignments.
Result: The SAM Assignments page displays.
4
Click Projects.
Result: The Projects page displays.
NOTE: Only the projects associated to textbooks in your section(s) display.
5
Locate and select a project.
To narrow your search:
 From the Textbook drop-down menu, select an appropriate textbook.
 From the Chapter/Unit drop-down menu, select an appropriate chapter.
 In the Search box, enter search text.
 To view projects that are not associated with the textbooks in the section, select
the View All SAM Projects checkbox.
Result: The filtered project list displays.
NOTE: Clicking Reset restores search defaults.
6
To preview the project, click the Preview icon.
Result: The Project Preview page displays.
7
Click the Download link to the right of Instruction File to view the instructions for
this project.
NOTE: Students do not download the Instruction File for Textbook Projects.
Result: A file download dialog box opens.
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Step
Action
8
Click the Download link to the right of Starting Document to view the document
assigned to the project.
Result: A file download dialog box opens.
9
Click the Download link to the right of Solution File to view what the completed
project should look like after students complete the project.
Result: A file download dialog box opens.
10
Click Close to return to the Projects page.
Scheduling a Project
To schedule a project for a section from the projects list, use the following procedure:
IMPORTANT: The only way to change a project assignment once created is to delete and recreate it. An
instructor can do this only if no students have taken the assignment.
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
If…
Then…
You are adding the project
through the Assignments tab

You are adding the project
through the Projects tab

Click Schedule New.
 Select the project to schedule.
Click Next Step.
On the Navigation bar, click
the Projects tab.
 In the Actions column of the
project you want to schedule,
click the Schedule icon.
NOTES:
 Search results display automatically.
 To clear the criteria, click the X icon next to the search menus.
 You can sort columns in ascending or descending order.
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Step
Action
4
In the Project Assignment Options and Scheduling dialog boxes, enter and select
from the various options. See the following table for details.
NOTE: Clicking the Adjust button enables you to adjust project weights. You cannot
adjust project weights in Textbook Projects. See the section Adjusting Project
Weights for the steps.
5
When finished entering all options, click Save.
Result: The Assignment Properties page displays.
6
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the learning
path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Project displays on the Learning Path.
Project Assignment Options and Schedule
Option
Details if selected
Project Assignment Options
*Assignment Name
Required field
Default: Auto-populates with the project name.
Instructions
Enter additional instructions.
Default: No instructions
Scoring and Delivery Options
Maximum number of
submission attempts
Enter the maximum number of times students can submit a
project. Instructors enable students to use the same project for
practice before submitting it for a final grade.
Default: Three attempts
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Option
Details if selected
Practice
Select to make the Project a Practice assignment that does not
count towards the final score.
Default: Non-Practice.
Pass/Fail threshold
To use the Pass/Fail option:
 Select the Pass/Fail check box.
 Enter a threshold percent.
Default: Not selected
Adjust Maximum Score
and Step Weight (Not
Textbook Projects)
Edit the final assignment score and the weight for each step.
Default: All steps have the same weight and a maximum score of
100.
Project Schedule Options
Dates/Times and Security
Specify password for
student access
(Displays if instructors do not specify available dates.)
Enter a password that students need to start the project.
IMPORTANT: Passwords are optional. If used, provide them to
students.
Default: No password
Specify late submission
options
(Displays if the instructor set dates for the assignment.)
Select daily percentage reduction and assignment end date.
Options are as follows:
 Enter Daily % reduction.
— A value between 1-99 is allowed. For every calendar day
after the assignment’s original due date, a daily percent
reduction will be taken off the submitted grade.
 Select End Date (Optional).
— The End Date is the last possible submission date for the
assignment. On the calendar, click any date on or after the
original due date. The dates between the original due
date and end date are highlighted in red and allowed for
late submission.
— NOTES:
 If assignment original due date has a specified time, then
Late Submission end date can be same as original due
date.
 If selecting an end date, assignment is due by 11:59pm.
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Option
Details if selected
Specify when students can
view report
Display exam performance reports to students as follows:
 Click the Never make reports available to students option
button if you do not want your students to view results for
this project.
 Click the Make student reports always available beginning
12:00 AM option button if you want to make reports for this
project available on a specific date. The date defaults to the
first available date. You can click the Calendar icon to select
a new date.
 Click the Make student reports available option button to
specify a range of dates when project reports will be
available. You can click the Calendar icon to select to select a
date.
Default: Make student reports available beginning on the
current date.
Adjusting Project Weights
By default, SAM project grades are worth 100 total points. You can change this default to any whole
number under 100. You can also change the point values of any step; but in order to save the project,
the total of all steps cannot exceed the total point value.
For example, if a project has a total of 100 points and the project has 10 steps, each step is worth a
maximum score of 10 points. If you change the total points to 80, then the 10 steps must add up to a
total of 80 points.
You can adjust the weights when you initially schedule the project or when you edit the project
schedule.
NOTE: You cannot adjust the Project Weights for Textbook Projects.
To adjust the total points and/or weights, use this procedure:
Step
Action
1
In the Project Assignment Options and Scheduling dialog box (Step 6 of the
Scheduling a Project procedure above.), click Adjust.
Result: The Adjust Step Weights window displays.
2
To change the Total Points for the project, enter a new number less than 100 in the
Total Points text box.
Result: The Total Points changes.
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Step
Action
3
In the If incorrect, deduct… column, manually adjust the step point values of steps
you want to change.
NOTE: Enter a value of 0 to grade a step but not assign a point deduction for it.
Result: The point values for the steps change.
4
Click Normalize.
Result: Normalize adjusts the point values for all steps you have not manually
changed.
NOTES:
 Point values for steps you changed remain the same.
 SAM adds any leftover points individually to unchanged steps starting from the
last step.
5
Optional: Click Reset to change scores to their original values.
Result: The scores reset.
6
Ensure that all steps add up to the Total Points.
Click OK.
Result: The score settings update.
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SAM Path
SAM Paths are assignments consisting of sequential combinations of exams and training. Supported
path combinations include the following:

Exam > Training > Exam: Use this path to test students on a topic, provide remedial training for
any errors and re-test students for proficiency.

Training > Exam: Use this path to train students on a topic and test their proficiency.

Exam > Training: Use this path to test students on a topic and provide remedial training for
errors.
IMPORTANT: Before you schedule a SAM path, create an exam with a companion training or training
with a companion exam. These paired assignments form the basis of SAM Path assignments.
Scheduling a New SAM Path Assignment
SAM Path assignments display as one Activity in the Learning Path. Students complete the assignments
in order and receive one cumulative score.

If the SAM Path assignment is either a Training > Exam or Exam > Training type, the exam score
displays for the cumulative score.

If you selected Display Training and Post Exam only for incorrect tasks in the Pre Exam in the
assignment options, the cumulative score for Exam > Training > Exam is the Pre Exam + the Post
Exam.

If you selected Display Training only for incorrect tasks in Pre Exam, Post Exam contains all
tasks or Display all tasks in Pre Exam, Training and Post Exam in the assignment options, the
cumulative score is the score number of questions students got right on either the Pre Exam or
Post Exam.
Use the following procedure to schedule a SAM Path assignment:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click Schedule New.
Result: The Add Assignment Options and Schedule wizard starts and Step 1, Select
Assignment Type, displays.
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Step
Action
4
For Assignment Type, click SAM Path.
NOTE: To preview a SAM Path assignment, click the corresponding Preview icon to
the right of the assignment name.
5
In this step, select the appropriate subject and exam.
 From the Subject drop-down menu, select an appropriate subject.
 From the Your Exams list, select an appropriate exam.
6
Click Next Step.
Result: Step 2 of the wizard, Add Assignment Options and Schedule, displays.
7
In this step, select the SAM Path Exam-Training combinations. Click the appropriate
option to select. Options display differently depending on your selection.
 Exam > Training > Exam: Use this path to test students on a topic, provide
remedial training for any errors and re-test students for proficiency.
 Training > Exam: Use this path to train students on a topic and test their
proficiency.
 Exam > Training: Use this path to test students on a topic and provide remedial
training for errors.
8
Enter the SAM Path Assignment Name.
9
In either the Exam > Training > Exam Options, Training > Exam Options, or Exam >
Training options dialog box, select from the various options. See the following table
for details.
10
When finished entering all options, click Save.
Result: The Assignment properties page displays.
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Step
11
Action
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the learning
path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Exam displays on the Learning Path.
SAM Path Exam > Training > Exam Options
NOTE: If desired, you can retain default settings for fields, where applicable.
Option
Description
Assignment Name
Edit the Assignment name.
Default: The exam name.
Pre-Exam, Training and
Post-Exam Instructions
Enter additional instructions to aid the student(s).
Default: No instructions
Start Training on Apply
Mode
Optional field
Select to start the tasks in Apply Mode on training assignments.
Default: Off
NOTE: This option only displays for training that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Display Training and Post Exam Tasks (Select 1)
Display Training and Post
Exam only for incorrect
tasks in the Pre Exam
(Default)
Select to give students Training and Post Exam questions only on
tasks that are incorrect in the Pre Exam.
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Option
Description
Display Training only for
incorrect tasks in Pre
Exam, Post Exam contains
all tasks
Select to give students Training only on tasks that are incorrect in
the Pre Exam and all tasks on the Post Exam.
Display all tasks in Pre
Exam, Training and Post
Exam
Select to give students all tasks for each SAM Path component.
Schedule
Specify password for
student access
(Displays if instructors do not specify available dates.)
Enter a password that students need to start the exam.
IMPORTANT: Passwords are optional. If used, provide them to
students.
Default: No password
Specify when students
can view reports
Select when students view reports on their SAM Path
performance.
 Click the Never make reports available to students option
button if you do not want your students to view results for
this SAM Path.
 Click the Make student reports always available beginning
12:00 AM option button if you want to make reports for this
SAM Path available on a specific date. The date defaults to
the first available date. You can click the Calendar icon to
select a new date.
 Click the Make student reports available option button to
specify a range of dates when SAM Path reports will be
available. You can click the Calendar icon to select to select a
date.
Default: Make student reports always available beginning on the
current date.
Scoring and Delivery Options – Pre-Exam
Specify time limit
Select whether to set a time limit for this exam.
If you select to limit the time, in the field that displays, enter the
maximum number of minutes.
Default: Untimed
Display results at end of
exam
Select whether to display scores to the students at the end of the
exam or not.
Default: Results do not display.
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Option
Description
Randomize
tasks/questions
Select whether the exam’s questions or tasks are presented
randomly or in the order originally selected for the exam.
Default: Not randomized
Performance Task Options – Pre-Exam
Modify scenarios
Click this link to use a task scenario document other than the
default scenario.
Result: The Modify Scenario window displays.
 From the Scenario drop-down menu, select another
document.
 Click OK to save the change and close the window.
NOTE: All tasks have multiple scenarios.
Default: Scenario 1
Display feedback for each
task item
Select whether to provide feedback after task completion, i.e.,
informing students whether they accomplished the task
correctly.
Default: Feedback displays.
Specify incorrect actions
per task
Select the number of times the student can attempt to complete
a task successfully before it is marked incorrect. You can select a
value from 1 to 10.
Default: Three attempts
Restrictive Mode
Students can only navigate to tabs, menus or dialog boxes that
lead to the correct answer. Students can still scroll, expand or
collapse pane drop downs within the ribbon.
NOTE: This option only displays for training that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Default: Not enabled.
Scoring and Delivery Options – Post-Exam
Pass/Fail
Select whether this exam grades on a Pass/Fail basis or not.
If you select Pass/Fail, in the field that displays, enter the
Pass/Fail threshold as a percentage of correct answers.
Default: Not Pass/Fail
Specify time limit
Select whether to set a time limit for this exam.
If you select to limit the time, in the field that displays, enter the
maximum number of minutes.
Default: Untimed
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Option
Description
Randomize
tasks/questions
Select whether the exam’s questions or tasks are presented
randomly or in the order originally selected for the exam.
Default: Not randomized
Display results at end of
exam
Select whether to display scores to the students at the end of the
exam or not.
Default: Results do not display.
Allow post-exam to be
retaken
Select whether to allow multiple attempts for the post-exam.
Default: One attempt
Practice
Select to make the Exam a Practice assignment that does not
count towards the final score.
Default: Non-Practice.
Restrictive Mode
Students can only navigate to tabs, menus or dialog boxes that
lead to the correct answer. Students can still scroll, expand or
collapse pane drop downs within the ribbon.
NOTE: This option only displays for training that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Default: Not enabled.
Performance Task Options – Post-Exam
Modify scenarios
Click this link to use a task scenario document other than the
default scenario.
Result: The Modify Scenario window displays.
 From the Scenario drop-down menu, select another
document.
 Click OK to save the change and close the window.
NOTE: All tasks have multiple scenarios.
Default: Scenario 1
Display feedback for each
task item
Select whether to provide feedback after task completion, i.e.,
informing students whether they accomplished the task
correctly.
Default: Feedback displays.
Specify incorrect actions
per task
Select the number of times the student can attempt to complete
a task successfully before it is marked incorrect. You can select a
value from 1 to 10.
Default: Three attempts
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SAM Path Training > Exam Options
All fields are mandatory except for instructions.
Option
Description
Exam and Training
Instructions
Enter additional instructions to help student(s).
Default: No instructions
Start Training on Apply
Mode
Optional field
Select to start the tasks in Apply Mode on training assignments.
Default: Off
NOTE: This option only displays for training that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Schedule
Specify password for
student access
(Displays if instructors do not specify available dates.)
Enter a password that students need to start the exam.
IMPORTANT: Passwords are optional. If used, provide them to
students.
Default: No password
Specify when students
can view reports
Select when students view reports on their SAM Path
performance.
 Click the Never make reports available to students option
button if you do not want your students to view results for this
SAM Path.
 Click the Make student reports always available beginning
12:00 AM option button if you want to make reports for this
SAM Path available on a specific date. The date defaults to the
first available date. You can click the Calendar icon to select a
new date.
 Click the Make student reports available option button to
specify a range of dates when SAM Path reports will be
available. You can click the Calendar icon to select to select a
date.
Default: Make student reports always available beginning on
today’s date.
Exam Scoring and Delivery Options
Pass/Fail
Select whether this exam grades on a Pass/Fail basis or not.
If you select Pass/Fail, in the field that displays, enter the Pass/Fail
threshold as a percentage of correct answers.
Default: Not Pass/Fail
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Option
Description
Specify time limit
Select whether there is be a time limit for this exam.
If you select to limit the time, in the field that displays, enter the
maximum number of minutes.
Default: Untimed
Randomize
tasks/questions
Select whether the exam’s questions or tasks are presented
randomly or in the order originally selected for the exam.
Default: Not randomized
Display results at end of
exam
Select whether to display scores to the students at the end of the
exam or not.
Default: Results not displayed
Allow exam to be
retaken
Select whether to allow multiple attempts for the post-exam.
Default: One attempt
Practice
Select to make the Exam a Practice assignment that does not
count towards the final score.
Default: Non-Practice.
Restrictive Mode
Students can only navigate to tabs, menus or dialog boxes that
lead to the correct answer. Students can still scroll, expand or
collapse pane drop downs within the ribbon.
NOTE: This option only displays for exams that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Default: Not enabled.
Exam Performance Task Options
Modify scenarios
Click this link to use a task scenario document other than the
default scenario.
Result: The Modify Scenario window displays.
 From the Scenario drop-down menu, select another document.
 Click OK to save the change and close the window.
NOTE: All tasks have multiple scenarios.
Default: Scenario 1
Display feedback for
each task item
Select whether to provide feedback after task completion, i.e.,
informing students whether they accomplished the task correctly.
Default: Feedback displays.
Specify incorrect actions
per task
Select the number of times the student can attempt to complete a
task successfully before it is marked incorrect. You can select a
value from 1 to 10.
Default: Three attempts
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SAM Path Exam > Training Options
All fields are mandatory except for Instructions.
Option
Description
Exam and Training
Instructions
Enter additional instructions to aid the student(s).
Default: No instructions
Display Training only for
incorrect tasks in the
pre-exam
Deselect the check box if you do not want to display.
Default: Only display tasks that were incorrect in the pre-exam
training.
Start Training on Apply
Mode
Optional field
Select to start the tasks in Apply Mode on training assignments.
Default: Off
NOTE: This option only displays for training that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Schedule
Specify password for
student access
(Displays if instructors do not specify available dates.)
Enter a password that students need to start the exam.
IMPORTANT: Passwords are optional. If used, provide them to
students.
Default: No password
Specify when students
can view reports
Select when students view reports on their SAM Path
performance.
 Click the Never make reports available to students option
button if you do not want your students to view results for this
SAM Path.
 Click the Make student reports always available beginning
12:00 AM option button if you want to make reports for this
SAM Path available on a specific date. The date defaults to the
first available date. You can click the Calendar icon to select a
new date.
 Click the Make student reports available option button to
specify a range of dates when SAM Path reports will be
available. You can click the Calendar icon to select to select a
date.
Default: Make student reports always available beginning on
today’s date.
Exam Scoring and Delivery Options
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Option
Description
Specify time limit
Select whether to set a time limit for this exam.
If you select to limit the time, in the field that displays, enter the
maximum number of minutes.
Default: Untimed
Randomize
tasks/questions
Select whether the exam’s questions or tasks are presented
randomly or in the order originally selected for the exam.
Default: Not randomized
Display results at end of
exam
Select whether to display scores to the students at the end of the
exam or not.
Default: Results do not display.
Practice
Select to make the Exam a Practice assignment that does not
count towards the final score.
Default: Non-Practice.
Restrictive Mode
Students can only navigate to tabs, menus or dialog boxes that
lead to the correct answer. Students can still scroll, expand or
collapse pane drop downs within the ribbon.
NOTE: This option only displays for training that contain Office
365/2016 tasks.
Default: Not enabled.
Exam Performance Task Options
Modify scenarios
To modify scenarios:
 Click this link to use a task scenario document other than the
default scenario.
 From the Scenario drop-down menu, select another document.
 Click OK to save the change and close the window.
NOTE: All tasks have multiple scenarios.
Default: Scenario 1
Display feedback for
each task item
Select whether to provide feedback after task completion, i.e.,
informing students whether they accomplished the task correctly.
Default: Feedback is displayed
Specify incorrect actions
per task
Select the number of times the student can attempt to complete a
task successfully before it is marked incorrect. You can select a
value from 1 to 10.
Default: Three attempts
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Moving Students to the Next Component in a SAM Path Assignment
You can set student scores in SAM Path trainings to 100% to move them to the post exam using the
following procedure:
NOTE: Use this when a student cannot complete the training assignment to advance to the post exam
component in the SAM Path assignment.
Step
Action
1
Select the SAM App from the App dock.
Result: The SAM App displays.
2
Click the Reset Score icon.
Result: The Reset Score page displays.
3
Click the score for the student you want to move to the post exam.
Type in the correct value so it is 100%.
Result: The score updates.
4
Click Done.
Result: The training counts as finished. Students can access the post exam.
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Using the Express Creation Wizard
Express Creation is a convenient way to create and schedule exam, training and project assignments
associated to a chapter from a textbook.
NOTES:

Exams and Training created in Express Creation Wizard cannot be used as a basis of SAM Path
assignments.

Instructors cannot create practice assignments through Express Creation. If you want to make
an assignment practice, create the exam or training, then edit it separately using the Editing
Assignments workflow.
To create assignments using Express Creation, follow the procedure detailed below:
Adding and Scheduling an Exam Assignment
In Express Creation, you can add and schedule an exam assignment using the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click Express Creation.
Result: The Express Creation page displays.
4
From the Select Section drop-down menu, select a section.
5
From the Textbook drop-down menu, select the textbook from which to create an
exam assignment.
6
From the Chapter tabs, select a chapter from which to create an exam assignment.
Result: The Express Creation wizard starts.
7
Click the Exam Assignment tab.
NOTE: If there are no exam assignments available for a chapter, the Exam tab does
not expand to show content.
8
In the Exam Assignment Name textbox, enter a name for the exam assignment.
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Step
Action
9
By default, all tasks are selected; testbank questions are not selected.
 Deselect and select tasks to include in the assignment.
 Select testbank questions to include in the assignment.
NOTE: An exam can have a maximum of 150 questions.
10
You can preview the whole exam or individual questions.
 To preview individual tasks or testbank questions: click the corresponding ?
icon.
 To select a different scenario: Click modify scenario. Select the Scenario dropdown menu, and select another scenario (Scenario 1 is the default).
 To preview the exam item: click the Exam Preview tab.
 To preview the exam contents: click the ? icon to the right of the Exam Preview
tab.
— To view all tasks and question details, click Launch All.
— To view individual tasks and question details, click Launch to the right of the
task or question.
— To print the Exam Preview window, click Print Screen.
11
Click Close to exit the Exam Preview window.
12
Click the Exam Options tab if not already displayed.
13
Enter all appropriate exam options. See the Exam Assignment and Scheduling
Options table for details.
14
Click Save Exam to save and schedule the exam.
Result: The Assignment Properties page displays.
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Step
15
Action
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the learning
path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Exam displays on the Learning Path.
Adding and Scheduling a Training Assignment
You can create training and exams in the wizard either together in the same session or in separate
sessions. The following procedure starts a new session. If you are still in the wizard skip to step 3.
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click Express Creation.
Result: The Express Creation page displays.
4
From the Select Section drop-down menu, select a section.
5
From the Textbook drop-down menu, select a textbook from which to create an
exam.
6
From the Chapter tabs, select the chapter from which to create an exam.
Result: The Express Creation wizard starts.
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Step
Action
7
Click the Training Assignment tab.
NOTE: If there are no training assignments available for a particular chapter, the
Training tab does not expand to show content.
8
In the Training Assignment box, enter a name for the training assignment.
9
By default, all training assignments are selected. Deselect and select training to
include.
NOTE: Training can have a maximum of 150 tasks.
10
You can preview the whole training or individual tasks.
 To preview individual tasks: click the corresponding ? icon.
 To preview the items: click the Training Preview tab.
— Click the Training Options tab to close the training preview.
 To Preview the training contents: click the ? icon to the right of the Training
Preview tab.
— To view all tasks and question details, click Launch All.
— To view individual tasks and question details, click Launch to the right of the
task or question.
— Click Exit when done.
— To print the Exam Preview window, click Print Screen.
11
Click Close to exit the Training Preview.
12
Click the Training Options tab if not already displayed.
13
In the Instructions text box, enter exam instructions.
14
Enter all appropriate training options. See the Scheduling Training Options table for
details.
15
Click Save Training to save and schedule it.
Result: The Assignment Properties page displays.
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Step
16
Action
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the learning
path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Training displays on the Learning Path.
Adding and Scheduling a Project Assignment
You can create projects in Express Creation using the following procedure.
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click Express Creation.
Result: The Express Creation page displays.
4
From the Select Section drop-down menu, select a section.
5
From the Textbook drop-down menu, select the textbook from which to create a
project assignment.
6
Click the appropriate Chapter tab to locate a project you want to add and schedule.
NOTE: If there are no project assignments available for a particular chapter, the
Project tab does not expand to show content.
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Step
Action
7
When you have located the appropriate chapter with projects available, click the
Project Assignment tab.
8
In the Projects Assignment box, enter a name for the project.
9
In the Instructions text box, enter project instructions.
10
You can preview the entire project in the left column underneath the assignment
name field by scrolling to and then downloading the Instruction, Start and Solution
files.
11
In the Project Assignment Options and Scheduling dialog box, enter and select
from the various options. See the Project Assignment Options and Schedule table
for details.
Clicking the Adjust Maximum Score and Step Weight button enables you to adjust
project weights. You cannot adjust project weights in Textbook Projects. See the
section Adjusting Project Weights for the steps.
12
Click Save Project to save and schedule the exam.
Result: The Assignment Properties page displays.
13
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the learning
path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Exam displays on the Learning Path.
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Adding Study Center Content
Study Center content automatically displays depending on the content instructors add to exams. Study
Center Activities may display in the MindTap course by default.
NOTE: Study Center Activities display as graded Activities in the Progress App. If you do not want them
to count towards the final grade, change the category weight to zero. View the Comprehensive Guide
to the Progress App for more details.
Add additional Study Center Activities using the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Click the Add (+) icon.
Click Add Activity.
Result: The Activity Manager displays.
2
Select the SAM App.
Result: The SAM App displays.
3
Click Add Study Center.
Result: The Assignment Properties page displays.
4
Edit the following fields.
Field
Details
Description (Optional)
(Optional) Displays in the LPN.
Available (Optional)
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the Learning
Path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Click Save.
Result: The Study Center displays on the Learning Path.
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Managing Activities in MindTap
Manage SAM Activities from the MindTap Learning Path. Customize your Learning Path by editing,
hiding or deleting Activities.
Editing SAM Assignments
Edit all existing SAM Assignments through the Learning Path. To edit a SAM Assignment, use the
following procedure:
Step
1
Action
Navigate to the Learning Path and click the Edit icon on an assignment.
Edit icon:
Result: The Activity Details window displays.
2
The following fields can be edited in the Activity Details window:
Field
Details
Description
Displays in the LPN.
Available
Click the field to select a date from the
calendar.
NOTE: All of the Activities in the learning
path display from the start of the course
if instructors do not add an available
date.
Due
Click the field to select a due date from
the calendar. If there is no due date, it
defaults to the end of the course.
Order
On edit, opens with current position.
Add to Folder
Add to an existing folder.
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Step
3
4
Action
Click on the Edit Options button to edit more assignment options:
Edit Options button:
Assignment Type…
Assignment and Scheduling
Options…
Exams
Exam Assignment and Scheduling
Options
Training
Scheduling Training Options
Projects
Project Assignment Options and
Schedule
SAM Path
SAM Path Exam > Training >
Exam Options
SAM Path Training > Exam
Options
SAM Path Exam >Training
Options
Click Save.
Result: The Assignment updates.
Hiding Activities
Instructors hide Activities from the student view on the Learning Path using the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
Hover over the element you need to delete.
Result: The cell displays highlighted and icons display.
2
Click the Hide icon.
Result: The assignment displays grayed out. No students view the assignment.
3
Optional: Click the Show icon.
Result: The assignment displays.
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Deleting Activities
Activities added in by instructors can be deleted, but Activities already in the course cannot be deleted.
NOTE: When you delete Activities, they are deleted permanently.
Step
Action
1
Hover over the element you need to delete.
Result: The cell displays highlighted and icons display.
2
Click the Delete icon.
Result: A confirmation dialog box displays.
3
Click OK to delete the Activity.
Result: The Activity no longer displays in the MindTap course.
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Using the Content Player
There are two different versions of the SAM Content Player that instructors can have in their courses.
The MindTap course determines which content player displays.
Using the 2013 Content Player
As an instructor, you can use the SAM Content Player to preview exams and training assignments.
There are three areas in the SAM Content Player:

Title Bar

Questions Area

Control Panel
Title Bar: Assignment Information
The title bar of the Content Player’s window lists general information about the assignment including:

Your name

The name of the assignment
Question Area: Assignment Questions and Tasks
The question displays either the question you need to answer or the simulated task you need to
complete. Follow the displayed instructions.
A window describing the training task displays when you begin a training. Click Continue to proceed
with the training.
Control Panel: Content Player Controls
The control panel at the bottom of the page displays the Content Player controls. These include:
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Control
Description
These controls enable you to do the
following:
 Open and close the menu of questions.
 Select specific questions to answer.
 Select tasks to perform.
For training assignments, different SAM versions and training types have different controls:
 Intro: Provides a basic summary of the task.
 Observe mode: Provides audio and visual instructions for the task.
 Practice mode: Helps you perform the task by providing audio and visual prompts.
 Apply mode: Enables you to perform the task without assistance.
 CC: Enables you to use Closed Caption.
The following are controls for various course subjects:
Controls
Course Subject
Microsoft Office 2013
Computer Concepts (training about Windows or the
computer)
Control Panel: Content Player Controls (Continued)
Control
Description
Displays when you are taking an exam.
 Displays the ID of the current task or
question.

Enables you to go to the previous or next
question in the task list.
Displays when you are using training.
 Ends one training mode and takes you to
the next.
NOTE: If clicked while in practice mode, it
takes you to the next task.

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Control
Description
Display when you are using the training’s
Observe and Practice modes.
 Enable you to reset, rewind, pause and
fast forward through the demonstration
of each task.
 Enable you to mute and unmute the audio
presentation.
 For Computer Concepts, enables you to
use Closed Caption.

Display when you are taking an exam.
 Indicate the time remaining for a timed
exam.
 Indicate the number of attempts you have
to answer the question or complete the
task.

Closes the Content Player.
 If there are any unanswered questions or
incomplete tasks, the following warning
displays: There are unfinished tasks. Are
you sure you want to exit?
 Click Yes to exit or No to return to the
session.
— If you exit, you also see a summary of
the session. You can click Print to print
the summary or click Close to end the
session and return to the Preview
Exam or Preview Training window.
— Click Close to close the Preview
window and return to the Exam,
Training or SAM Assignments page,
depending on where you clicked
Preview.
IMPORTANT: Do not use the X of the Windows control to exit the Content Player. If you click the X of
the Windows control, you will lose your work.
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Using the 2016 Content Player
As an instructor, you can use the SAM Content Player to preview exams, trainings and assignments.
There are three areas in the SAM Content Player:

Title Bar

Content Area

Content Player Toolbar
2016 Content Player Tool Bar: Assignment Information
The title bar of the Content Player’s window lists general information about the assignment including:

Your name

The name of the assignment

2016 Content Area: Assignment Questions and Tasks
The question displays either the question you need to answer or the simulated task you need to
complete. Follow the displayed instructions.
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Control Panel: Content Player Toolbar
The control panel at the bottom of the page displays the Content Player controls. These include:
Control
Description
Hide the Content Player toolbar
Show the Content Player toolbar
These controls enable you to do the
following:
 Open and close the menu of tasks.
 Select specific tasks to answer or
complete.
Enables you to go to the previous or next
question in the task list.
 Students cannot navigate to the task if
they used all their attempts or got the
task correct.

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Control
Description
Displays the number of tasks attempted in
exams.
Displays when you use training.
 Ends one training mode and takes you to
the next.
 The available modes depend on the task
and mode you completed.

Displays when you take exams.
 Takes you to the next task automatically.






Display when you are using the training’s
Observe and Practice modes or Intro
mode for Computer Concepts tasks.
Enables you to play, pause and adjust
speed through the demonstration of
each task.
Enables you to mute and unmute the
audio presentation.
For Computer Concepts, enables you to
view Closed Caption.
For Computer Concepts, enables you to
read the Transcript.
Displays when you are taking an exam.
 Indicates the time remaining for a timed
exam.
 Indicates the number of attempts you
have to answer the question or complete
the task.

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Control
Description
Display Mac hints.
 Displays in training and exams.
 Indicates keyboard shortcuts and
instructions for Mac users.

Closes the Content Player and submits the
assignment.
 If there are any unanswered questions or
incomplete tasks, a warning displays.
 Click OK to exit or Cancel to return to the
session.

For training assignments, different SAM versions and training types have different modes:

Intro: Provides a basic summary of the task.

Observe: Provides audio and visual instructions for the task.

Practice: Helps you perform the task by providing audio and visual prompts. Practice mode is
only available for Office 365 tasks.

NOTE: Practice mode is not available for Computer Concepts tasks.

Apply: Enables you to perform the task without assistance.
WARNING: Do not use the X of the Windows control to exit the Content Player. If you click the X of the
Windows control, you may lose your work.
The following are content player controls available in different modes:
Controls
Tasks Available
Description
Office 365/2016
Enabled in Observe and Practice
Modes.
Computer Concepts
Enabled in Intro and Observe
Modes.
Office 365/2016
Enabled in Observe and Practice
Modes
Computer Concepts
Not Available.
Office 365/2016
Not Available.
Computer Concepts
Enabled in Intro and Observe
Modes
Office 365/2016
Not implemented.
Computer Concepts
Enabled in Intro and Observe
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Controls
Tasks Available
Description
Modes.
Office 365/2016
Enabled in Observe and Practice
Modes.
Computer Concepts
Enabled in Intro and Observe
Modes.
Office 365/2016
Not Available.
Computer Concepts
Enabled in Observe Mode. Click
Topics to view a list of videos.
Select the video to watch.
Mac Hints
The 2016 Content Player shows students the following hints for using Mac computer to complete tasks.
The full sized version of the Mac keyboard has two delete keys. When dealing with text pressing the
Delete/del key deletes text to the right of the cursor and pressing the backspace key deletes text to the
left (backwards) of the cursor. The Delete key present in the left side is for the Backspace key and the
Delete key present on the number pad at the right side is for the normal Delete command.
The Apple Magic Keyboard normally used in MacBook only has one Delete key. If you press Delete
without the Function (Fn) key, it works like Backspace. If you press this Delete key with the Fn key, it
works like the regular Delete command.
For the tasks that require the Delete command (e.g. deletes text to the right of the cursor)
 Full-sized version keyboard
o
Press the Delete Key on the Number pad on the right side.
 Apple Magic Keyboard without numeric keypad
o
Hold the Fn Key on the keyboard while pressing Delete.
For the tasks that require Backspacing (e.g. deletes text to the left of the cursor)
 Full-sized version keyboard
o
Press the Delete Key on the left side.
 Apple Magic Keyboard without numeric keypad
o
Press the Delete key.
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SAM Reports
From the Reports tab of the SAM App, you can generate a wide variety of reports.
For more details on each report, see SAM Report Descriptions.
Generating Reports
Use the following procedure to generate new Reports:
Step
Action
1
On the Navigation bar, click Results.
Result: The Reports tab displays by default.
2
Select the assignment type for which you want to run a report.
Result: The Report Type dropdown displays.
3
Select a Report Type.
NOTE: Based on your Report Type and required report criteria, specific search
options display to the right.
4
Select the report criteria.
5
Select the optional report fields to include in the report.
6
Select the section, assignment and student for which to run the report.
NOTE: The section is the MindTap course name.
7
Click Generate Report.
Result: The report displays in a new tab.
8
To close the report, click the X icon in the upper right of the report window.
IMPORTANT: Do not click the X icon for Windows or you will exit SAM.
Report Types with Associated Reports
The following reports are available in the Reports tab:
Type
Reports
Exams






Frequency Analysis (exam or
assignment)
Individual Performance
Section Results – by Exam
(exam or assignment)
Section Results – by Section
Section Results – by Subject
Student Results – by Exam
(exam or assignment)
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




Student Results – by Student
Student Results – by Subject
Student Results – All
Assignments
Student Completion
Certificate
Student Specific Frequency
Analysis (exam or
assignment)
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Type
Reports
Trainings

Projects

Individual Performance
 Section Results – by Training
(training or assignment)

Frequency Analysis (project
or assignment)
Individual Performance
Section Results – by Project
(project or assignment)
Section Results – by Section
Student Results – by Project
(project or assignment)





SAM Path

Study Center
Student Results - All
Assignments
Student Results – by Student
 Student Results – All
Assignments
 Downloaded Submitted
Projects
 Projects Incident Report
Individual Performance
 Section Results – by SAM
Path

Student Results – All
Assignments

Study Center Student
Results

Study Center Section Results
Sections

Section Roster
Users

User Usage
Viewing Reports
Once you have generated a report, it displays in a separate browser window. If the report viewer does
not display, your browser is set to block pop-ups.
The report viewer includes the following controls at the top of the page:
Control or Entry
Action
Go to the first page of the report.
Go to the previous page.
Enter page number and
press ENTER
Go to a specific page.
Go to the next page.
Go to the last page.
Select on Zoom dropdown menu
Increase or decrease the size of the report on the screen.
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Control or Entry
Action
Enter a search term in
the Find Text field
Search for specific words within the report such as a section
name.
 Click Find to find the first occurrence of the word.
 Click Next to find the subsequent occurrences of the word.
Export link
Exports the report in a number of formats so it can be used in
other computer applications like Microsoft Excel or Word. To
export the report, use this procedure:
Step Action
Print Using PDF link
1
After you have generated the report, click the
icon.
Result: A standard file download dialog box displays.
2
Click Open to view the exported report in the
associated application.
NOTE: You can perform any of the functions that the
application normally provides such as saving to a
directory, printing, editing, and emailing it to another
user.
3
Click Save to store the exported report to a directory
on your computer, a file server or a removable drive.
Once saved, you can view, print or email the report at
some later time.
Converts the report to Adobe’s PDF format. To print to a PDF, use
this procedure:
Step Action
1
Click the Print using PDF link.
Result: A standard file download dialog box displays.
2
The following options are available:
 Click Open to view the report using Adobe Acrobat
Reader.
NOTE: You can print, save, email the report to
yourself, or perform any other function provided by
Adobe Acrobat Reader.
 Click Save to store the PDF file to a directory on
your computer, a file server or a removable drive.
NOTE: Once saved, you can view, print or email the
report at some later time.
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Using Playback
A Playback simulation is available for the Individual Performance report for Office 2013 and 2016
products.
NOTE: Playback is not available for CC tasks in the 2016 Content Versions. Playback for 2013 Content
Versions is not available for Windows 7, Computer Concepts, and IE 9 tasks.
To view a Playback simulation for this specific report, use the following procedure:
Step
Action
1
On the Navigation bar, click Results.
Result: The Reports tab displays by default.
2
From the Report Type drop-down menu, select a report type that contains an
Individual Performance report.
NOTE: The Playback feature is only available for Exams, including the Exam
component in a SAM Path.
3
From the Report drop-down menu, select Individual Performance.
4
In the Assignment drop-down menu, select the appropriate assignment.
NOTE: You can search for a section by entering search text in the Search Section
text box.
5
Click Generate Report.
Result: The selected Individual Performance report displays.
6
Click the Playback link.
Result: A simulation of the student’s steps in completing the assignment displays.
7
To close the report, click the X icon in the upper right of the report window.
IMPORTANT: Do not click the X icon for Windows or you will exit SAM.
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SAM Report Descriptions
Instructors and students view SAM reports by clicking the SAM icon on the MindTap App Dock.
SAM Reports provide step-by-step playback for each SAM exam or training task and question and
generate detailed reports on project assignments.
The Reports tab displays the list of reports that SAM can generate for the course.
SAM Reports fall into seven categories

Exam Reports

Training Reports

Project Reports

SAM Path Reports

Study Center Reports

Sections Reports

Users Reports
NOTE: For steps to generate a report, see Reports in the Results section of this document.
Exam Report Descriptions
The following table provides a brief description and list of fields for available Exam Reports. Some
reports enable you to select the student identifier to display.
Report Type
Description
Available Fields
Frequency
Analysis (exam
and assignment)
Displays performance results for each
exam task for the section as a whole
Required fields
 Average Score
 Scheduling
Instructor
(assignment
only)
 Total Students
 Subject
 Activity
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





Question/Task (task
id)
Average Time
(mm:ss)
Correct
Incorrect
Skipped
Not Presented
% Correct
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Report Type
Description
Available Fields
Individual
Performance
Displays performance results for each
exam task for a specific student
Required fields
 Course
 Section
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Date Taken
 Score
 Total Time
Spent
(mm:ss)

Section Results –
by Exam
Displays performance results for each
student in the section grouped by
exam
Required fields
 Student Name
 Overall Exam
Average
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Scheduled
Date
 Average
Section Score
 Raw Score
(Average)
 Score

Section Results –
by Section
Displays performance results for the
section as a whole for each student in
the section
Required fields
 Overall
Section
Average
 Assignment
Section
Average
 Raw Score
 Scheduled
Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Student Name
 Date Taken

Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
Cengage Learning
Subject
 Activity
 Task (ID)
 Result
Optional fields
 Time Spent (Task)
Date Taken
 Time Spent
(hh:mm:ss)
 Pass/Fail
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Score
 Number of Correct
 Time Spent
(hh:mm:ss)
 Pass/Fail
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
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Instructors/DSCs
Report Type
Description
Available Fields
Section Result –
by Subject
Displays performance results for each
student in the section grouped by
subject
Required fields
 Overall
Subject
Average
 Assignment
 Average Score
 Raw Score
 Scheduled
Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Student Name
 Date Taken

Student Resultsby Exam
Displays performance result for
exam(s) grouped by exam
Required fields
 Assignment
 Scheduled
Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Average Score
 Student Name
 Date Taken
 Score
 Number of
Correct

Student Results
– by Student
Displays performance results for
exam(s) grouped by student
Required fields
 Date Taken
 Score
 Number of
Correct
 Time Spent
(hh:mm:ss)

Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
SAM 2013/2016
Score
 Number of Correct
 Time (hh:mm:ss)
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Time Spent
 Pass/Fail
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Pass/Fail
 Average Score
 Total Time Taken
Optional field
 Total Number of
Correct
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Report Type
Description
Available Fields
Student Results
– by Subject
Displays performance results for
students grouped by subject.
Required fields
 Overall
Subject
Average
 Assignment
 Average Score
 Raw Score
 Scheduled
Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Student Name
 Date Taken
 Term

Student
Completion
Certificate
Displays a formal certificate of
completion to the student for the
exam taken
Student Specific
Frequency
Analysis
Displays performance results for
specific students in a section with
details of instructor name and a task
and score summary
Required fields
 Average Score
 Scheduling
Instructor
(Assignment
only)
 Raw Score
 Total Number
of
Tasks/Questi
ons
 Total Students

Year
 Score
 Number of Correct
 Time Spent
(hh:mm:ss)
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Student Name
 Submission
Number
 % Correct
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Training Report Descriptions
The following table provides a brief description and list of fields for available Training Reports. Some
reports enable you to select the student identifier to display:
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
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Page 66
Instructors/DSCs
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Individual
Performance
Displays performance results for a
training task for a specific student
Required fields
 Course
 Section
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Due Date





Section Results –
by Training
(exam and
assignment)
Displays performance results for
each student in the section grouped
by training assignment
Required fields
 Student Name
 Completed By
 Due Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Scheduled
Date
 Number of
Apply Tasks
Complete

Student ResultsAll Assignments
Displays performance results for all
assignments for a specific student
Required fields
 Section
 Term
 Year
 Assignment
 Type

% Complete
Subject
Activity
Task (ID)
Apply Complete
% Complete
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address




Date Taken
Score
Number of Correct
Time Spent
Pass/Fail
Project Report Descriptions
The following table provides a brief description and list of fields for available Project Reports. Some
reports enable you to select the student identifier to display. Options include:
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Frequency
Analysis (project
and assignment)
Displays performance results for
each project task for the section as
a whole
Required fields
 Average Score
 Scheduling
Instructor
(assignment
only)
 Raw Score
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
SAM 2013/2016






Total students
Step number
Text
Activities
Full Credit
No Credit
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Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Individual
Performance
Displays performance results for
each project step for a specific
student
Required fields
 Course
 Section
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Submission
Status
 Max
Submissions






Section Results –
by Project
Displays performance results for
each student in the section
grouped by project. This also
includes Section Results by
Projects.
Required fields
 Scheduled Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Average Section
Score
 Score Points
(Average)
 Student Name
 Submission Date

Section Results –
by Section –
Displays performance results for a Required fields
section as a whole for each student  Overall Section
in the section
Average
 Section
Instructors
 Assignment
Section Average
 Max
Submissions
Allowed
 Scheduled Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Student Name
 Date Submitted

Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
Cengage Learning
Allowed Submission
Date
Score
Text
Activities
Result
Score
 Pass/Fail
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Score
 Pass/Fail
 Submission Status
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
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Instructors/DSCs
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Student Resultsby Project
Displays performance results for a
student grouped by projects
Required fields
 Scheduled Date
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Average Score
 Total Score
(Points)
 Student Name
 Term
 Year
 Submission Date

Student Resultsby Student
Displays performance results for
project(s) grouped by student
Required fields
 Average Score
 Date Submitted
 Submission
Number

Student ResultsAll Assignments
Displays performance results for all
assignments for a single student.
Required fields
 Section
 Term
 Year
 Assignment
 Type

Downloaded
Submitted
Projects
Displays projects that students
submitted for instructors to grade.
Projects Incident
Report
Displays cheat detection
information.
Required fields
 Student Name
 Instructor(s)
 Submission Date
 Score
 Term
 Year
 Pass/Fail
 Type of Cheating

Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
SAM 2013/2016
Submission Number
 Score
 Pass/Fail
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Score
 Pass/Fail
 Submission Status
Date Taken
 Score
 Number of Correct
 Time SpentPass/Fail
Other Students
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
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Projects File Incident Report Information
This list gives you more details on how cheat detection works in SAM:

If a student submits a blank document generated by Microsoft Office instead of the SAM Start
File, SAM flags the student for cheat detection because a blank file does not contain the codes
required to identify the student. N/A displays in the Other Student column.

SAM does not embed the solution file for a project with Cheat Detection codes. Do not submit
the solution file to verify cheat detection. Submit the student’s SAM generated Start File to
verify cheat detection. Cheat detection is flagged and N/A displays in the Other Student column.

SAM reports that the student did not submit the Start File generated by SAM and indicates
which student the Start File belongs to in the Other Student column. If the Other Student
column contains the same name as the submitting student, the student used a Start file that
was created for another assignment or section (for the same project).

SAM reports that the student copied and pasted some or all content from another student’s
SAM Start File and indicates which student the Start File belongs to in the Other Student
column. If the Other Student column contains the same name as the submitting student, the
student used a Start file that was created for another assignment or section (for the same
project).

SAM cannot identify the location in a document that was copy and pasted from another
student. While the cheat codes are embedded throughout the document, SAM does not store
the location of the copied content.
SAM Path Report Descriptions
The following table provides a brief description and list of fields for available SAM Path Reports. Some
reports enable you to select the student identifier to display.
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Individual
Performance
Displays performance results for a
SAM Path component's task for a
specific student
Required fields
 Course
 Section
 Scheduling
Instructor
 Date Taken
 Score
 Total Time Spent
(mm:ss)
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
Cengage Learning







Subject
Activity/Question
Task (ID)
Result
Incorrect Answer
Apply Complete
Time Spent (Task)
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Instructors/DSCs
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Section Results
by SAM Path
Displays performance results for
each student for each SAM Path
assignment.










Student ResultsAll Assignments
Displays performance results for all
assignments for a specific student






Required fields
Scheduling
Instructor
Scheduled Date
Date Taken
Average Score
Average Raw
Score
Term
Year
Number of
Correct
Time
SpentPass/Fail

Number of Apply
Task Complete
 Percent Complete
 Score
 Completed Date
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Required fields
Section
Term
Year
Assignment
Type





Date Taken
Score
Number of Correct
Time Spent
Pass/Fail
Study Center Report Descriptions
The following table provides a brief description and list of fields for available Study Center Reports.
Some reports enable you to select the student identifier to display.
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Study Center
Student Results
Displays performance results for
Study Center Activities for a
specific student
Required fields
 Student Name
 Term
 Year
 Assignment
Name
 Number of Cards
Viewed
 Time Spent
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
SAM 2013/2016
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
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Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Study Center
Section Results
Displays performance results for
Study Center for the section
Required fields
 Term
 Year
 Instructor(s)
 Total Students
 Student Name
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
Sections Report Descriptions
The following table provides a brief description and list of fields for available SAM Sections Reports.
Some reports enable you to select the student identifier to display.
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
Section Roster
Displays section details and
student information
Required fields
 Course Name
 Term
 Year
 Section
Instructor
 Section Creator
 Content Version
 Student Name
 Account
Creation
 # of Logins (since
December
2015)
Last Login Date
 Last Submission
 Wait Listed
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address

Users Reports Description
The following table provides a brief description and list of fields for available SAM Users Reports. Some
reports enable you to select the student identifier to display.
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
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Page 72
Instructors/DSCs
Report Name
Description
Available Fields
User Usage
Displays user information for a
specific student
Required fields
 Sections
 First Login Date
 Last Login Date
 # of Logins (since
December
2015)
 Submission Date
 Assignment Type
 Assignment
Name
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
SAM 2013/2016
Optional fields
 Student Username
 Student Alias
 Student Blackboard
ID
 Student ID
 Student Email
Address
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Progress
Instructors of MindTap courses with SAM Activities use the MindTap Progress App to view student
scores. The Progress App displays student scores, enables editing of scores and dropping students.
Instructors change activity due dates for an individual student in the Progress App as well. For details,
view the Comprehensive Guide to the Progress App.
Instructor Guide to Creating and Managing SAM Activities in MindTap
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Instructors/DSCs